If you’re wondering how to say handsome in Spanish, you’re in the right place! Complimenting someone’s looks in Spanish is a great way to express admiration and connect with native speakers.
The most common word for “handsome” is “guapo”, which is often used to describe attractive men. Depending on the region and context, you might also hear variations like “atractivo” or “hermoso.”
Learning how to say handsome in Spanish not only boosts your vocabulary but also helps you sound more natural and confident in conversations.
Plus, using the right compliments can make your interactions more friendly, respectful, and engaging.
1. Guapo
Origin:
The most standard translation for “handsome,” guapo is widely used across Spain and Latin America.
Example:
👤 User A: ¡Hola! ¿Quién es ese chico tan guapo?
👤 User B: Es mi primo. ¡Siempre llama la atención!
Use: Very common and safe for most contexts; can also mean “brave” in Spain.
2. Apuesto
Origin:
A more formal or poetic term meaning “dashing” or “refined.” Think of a gentleman in a suit.
Example:
👤 User A: Ese actor es muy apuesto, ¿no crees?
👤 User B: ¡Sí! Tiene un aire elegante.
Use: Formal or romantic compliments.
3. Hermos
Origin:
Means “beautiful” but works for people. Emphasize inner and outer beauty.
Example:
👤 User A: Qué hermoso se ve tu hermano en esa foto.
👤 User B: Gracias, fue en su graduación.
Use: Emotional, sincere, or poetic tone.
4. Lindo
Origin:
Similar to “cute” or “pretty,” lindo is used affectionately.
Example:
👤 User A: ¡Qué niño más lindo!
👤 User B: ¡Es mi sobrino! Tiene solo 3 años.
Use: Often used for younger males or in sweet, affectionate situations.
5. Churro (Mexico)
Origin:
Mexican slang for a hot guy. Literally means “fried dough,” but trust us, it’s a compliment!
Example:
👤 User A: ¡Ese mesero está hecho un churro!
👤 User B: ¡Cómprale una propina extra!
Use: Flirty, informal; common among young people.
6. Papacito / Papito
Origin:
A spicy, flirtatious term used in Latin America. Literally means “little daddy.”
Example:
👤 User A: ¡Hola, papacito! ¿Vienes mucho por aquí?
👤 User B: Solo cuando tú estás aquí. 😉
Use: Very flirty; use with caution and the right audience.
7. Bien parecido
Origin:
A more formal way to say “good-looking” or “well-featured.”
Example:
👤 User A: ¿Viste al nuevo profesor? Muy bien parecido.
👤 User B: Sí, y además simpático.
Use: Polite and a bit formal.
8. Mono / Monito (Chile, parts of Colombia)
Origin:
In Chile, mono means cute or good-looking, not “monkey” as in other places.
Example:
👤 User A: ¡Ese chico es tan mono!
👤 User B: ¡Y muy amable también!
Use: Regional slang; use in context-sensitive settings.
9. Guapetón
Origin:
An intensifier of guapo, meaning “very handsome” or “hunk.”
Example:
👤 User A: ¿Quién es ese guapetón en la barra?
👤 User B: Ni idea, ¡pero deberías ir a hablarle!
Use: Playful or admiring.
10. Bombón
Origin:
Literally means “chocolate candy.” Used to refer to a “snack” — an extremely attractive person.
Example:
👤 User A: ¡Ese modelo es un bombón!
👤 User B: Me derrito solo de verlo.
Use: Flirty or playful; popular among younger crowds.
11. Rico / Ricura
Origin:
Means “delicious” or “tasty.” Often used in a romantic or flirtatious tone.
Example:
👤 User A: ¡Estás rico hoy con esa camisa!
👤 User B: Y eso que no viste el pantalón. 😉
Use: Very informal and sensual. Use carefully.
12. Macizo (Central America, Spain slang)
Origin:
Means “solid” or “muscular.” Used to describe physically strong, good-looking men.
Example:
👤 User A: Ese chico del gimnasio está macizo.
👤 User B: ¡Vaya que sí!
Use: Regional slang; informal and physical-focused.
13. Galán
Origin:
Refers to the “leading man” or heartthrob in movies and TV.
Example:
👤 User A: ¡Ese actor es un verdadero galán!
👤 User B: ¡Por eso tiene tantos fans!
Use: Polished, confident men — the “movie star” type.
14. Divino
Origin:
Literally “divine.” Used in Argentina and Uruguay to describe someone stunning.
Example:
👤 User A: ¡Ese chico es divino!
👤 User B: ¡Y además baila tango!
Use: Stylish, charming compliment.
15. Tierno
Origin:
Means “tender” or “sweet.” Used to describe cute, kind-hearted guys.
Example:
👤 User A: Es guapo y además muy tierno.
👤 User B: ¡Un combo perfecto!
Use: Emotional and affectionate.
Conclusion:
Now that you’ve learned how to say handsome in Spanish, you can confidently use words like “guapo,” “atractivo,” and “hermoso” to compliment someone’s appearance. These words not only express admiration but also show your effort to connect through language and culture.
Whether you’re chatting with friends or meeting someone new, the right compliment can make a lasting impression.
Keep practicing how to say handsome in Spanish to enhance your vocabulary and make your Spanish conversations more engaging and expressive.
With time and confidence, using these compliments will feel completely natural!
